Potato farmers set to benefit from new deal

A section of farmers in Kinangop, Nyandarua county, pack their potatoes in extended bags on July 30, 2020. One year since the potato law that requires the produce be sold in 50 kilogram bags, the law is yet to be fully enforced.

Smallholder potato farmers stand to increase their yields following a deal signed between Corteva Agriscience and the National Potato Council of Kenya.

The partnership will introduce better technology and show farmers how to improve potato yields through the use of quality seeds, pest and disease management, post-harvest management and record keeping.

Since April 2020, seven demonstration plots have been set up in Kinangop, Olkalau, Mau Narok, Bomet Central, Kieni East, Kieni West and Ainabkoi sub-counties. 

More than 400 farmers have been trained on recommended practices such as soil testing services, apical cuttings technology, seeds selection and use of quality certified seeds, crop nutrition, crop protection and spray service provision. 

The sector contributes almost $US30 million annually to the Kenyan economy and employs approximately 3.3 million people, out of which around 800,000 are smallholder farmers. 

Kenyan potato farmers have an average output of seven tonnes per hectare compared to 50 tonnes per hectare in other countries. 

By adopting use of improved inputs and techniques, participating farmers will be able to achieve significant productivity gains and increase their potato yields from seven tonnes to 20 tonnes.

Speaking during a farmer field day in Uasin Gishu County, Francis Karanja, Corteva Agriscience Sales Leader, Crop Protection in East Africa, said, “Corteva Agriscience is collaborating to help increase the productivity, incomes, and sustainable farming practices of smallholder farmers. The products and information we share helps farmers manage potato pests and diseases, incorporate the latest advances in sustainability and technology into their daily operations

"The technology we are bringing on board, which incorporates best agronomic practices, modern technology to provide scientific control of fungal diseases and safe use of chemicals is meant to increase the potato yields per hectare in the small holdings significantly,’’ said Karanja.

Wachira Kaguongo from the Potato Council of Kenya said the challenges facing potato farming in Kenya could only be tackled through a Public Private Partnership approach bringing stakeholders in the industry and value chain together.

He noted that farmers continued to produce low yields and of poor quality due to a combination of factors which include poor quality seeds, poor use of technology, and lack of expertise in disease and pest control.

"Our objective at the council is to assist farmers produce high yields per hectare, free of diseases and pests. Our role will be to mobilise potato farmers and other stakeholders in the potato value chain to benefit from this technology and other measures aimed at increasing small holders’ incomes,’’ said Kaguongo .

According to the Potato Council of Kenya, pests and diseases contribute to an estimated 80 per cent reduction in production which threatens improved seed availability and food security.


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